What You Need to Know About Your Post-Baby Body

Surprised By The Postnatal Changes?

Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible experience but it is also a challenging time for new moms. The physical changes that come with motherhood can be overwhelming from changes in clothing size to alterations in breast shape and hip width. It's essential to understand that motherhood changes you inside and out!

In this article, we'll explore some common issues that new moms face and provide tips to handle those

Emotional And Physical Changes After Giving Birth

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends new mothers remain in the hospital for a minimum of 24 hours after giving birth. However, if you experienced complicated labour or underwent a Caesarean section, an extended stay may be necessary.

Your body needs time to adjust to the physical changes post-pregnancy, regardless of the delivery method.

The following is a glimpse into what you may expect in terms of physical and emotional changes after giving birth.

Physical Changes

1. Pain

• After giving birth, it's normal to feel some pain and cramping in your tummy area.
• This discomfort is due to the uterus contracting and returning to its pre-pregnancy size, and it may last for a few days. Meanwhile, you can ease the pain by sitting on a cushion or using an ice pack to cool off the area.  

2. Vaginal Discharge

• After delivery, the superficial mucous membrane that lined your uterus during pregnancy will begin to shed.
• This will result in vaginal discharge that will be heavy and red for a few days. Gradually it will become watery.
• This will last for a few weeks after giving birth.  

3. Incontinece

• Pregnancy, labour, and vaginal delivery can cause your pelvic floor muscles to stretch or get injured.
• This may result in some urine leakage when you sneeze, laugh, or cough.
• Even so don't stress! These issues usually go away within a few weeks.  

4. Haemorrhoids and Bowel Movements

• If you're feeling sore or itchy around your anus or noticing some bleeding when you go to the bathroom, you may have haemorrhoids, also known as piles.
• To alleviate discomfort, you can use pads that contain witch hazel or a numbing agent.
• You can also soak the anal area in plain warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day to reduce the pain.
• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water to make bathroom breaks easier

5. Tender Breasts

• After giving birth, your breasts may feel full, firm, and tender (engorged).
• To help prevent or reduce this, try to breastfeed frequently on both sides.
• Your milk should start flowing and any discomfort should ease up.

6. Weight Loss

• Your body will naturally shed some weight during and after the delivery, including fluids and the baby’s weight.
• To lose the remaining weight, focus on a healthy diet and gentle exercise after consulting with your doctor.

7. Emotional Changes

Mood

• Bringing a tiny human into the world can be a rollercoaster of emotions! It's totally normal to feel a bit anxious after giving birth, which we call the baby blues.
• This might include feeling moody, tendency to cry easily, and struggling to sleep.
• Don't worry, these feelings usually pass within two weeks. Just take it easy and soon enough you'll be feeling like yourself again!

Self-Care At Home After Delivery

Self-care is just as important as caring for your newborn, even though the first month can be overwhelming. Here are some self-care tips to keep in mind after delivery:

• Resting: After delivering a baby, rest is crucial to your recovery. Take naps or rest when your baby sleeps.
• Avoiding heavy lifting: Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby, especially after a C-section delivery.
• Washing your hands: Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before feeding your baby.
• Limiting stair climbing: During the first week, limit the number of times you go up and down the stairs each day.
• Limiting visitors: It's okay to say no to visitors or limit them during the first few weeks as you adjust to your new life and heal from the delivery.
• Asking for help: Don't be afraid to ask family and friends for help with tasks such as cooking meals, doing laundry, or babysitting siblings.

Postpartum Check-ups

Regularly visiting your doctor after delivery is crucial to ensure your overall well-being and the well-being of your newborn. Your doctor will address important issues such as emotional and physical health, infant care and feeding, and birth spacing. This is also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have and receive guidance on how to adjust to your new life with your baby.

Conclusion

The journey of motherhood is filled with profound changes, both physically and emotionally. This blog serves as a beacon of understanding and guidance, helping new mothers navigate the complexities of their post-baby bodies. It encourages mothers to embrace these changes with grace, seek support when needed, and prioritize their well-being along with their newborn's. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your little one.